Skin Changes

Being pregnant triggers changes to your skin. (And, no, we’re not talking about the pregnancy glow.) Fortunately, most of them will fade away after you have your baby.

Stretch marks. After you give birth, these reddish streaks should fade to fine silvery lines, which may or may not disappear. Using oils, creams, or lotions while you’re pregnant will make your skin feel better, but they can’t stop stretch marks from forming.

New hair in new places. You might discover new hair on your face, abdomen, or back. (Thanks, pregnancy hormones!) Any hair you didn’t have before you were pregnant will go away after you have your baby.

Linea nigra. Have you noticed a narrow, dark line extending from your belly button to your pubic bone? It’s called linea nigra and it’s more common for women who have dark hair and skin. It will fade or disappear completely after birth.

Chloasma. You may also notice dark patches on your nose, forehead, cheeks and neck. They darken in the sun, so it’s important to wear sunscreen every day — which you already do, right? After birth, the spots will lighten and then disappear.